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I have a new Epi Ultra-339 on the way. Do I need to replace the factory strings? With what? I have a Pocket Pod and a Fender Passport 300 system.
Which settings on the Pocket Pod and Passport would give me a Bonamassa-type sound?
I'll buy an LP Ultra 3 later.
Thanks

I have a new Epi Ultra-339 on the way. Do I need to replace the factory strings? With what? I have a Pocket Pod and a Fender Passport 300 system.
Which settings on the Pocket Pod and Passport would give me a Bonamassa-type sound?
I'll buy an LP Ultra 3 later.
Thanks

Hi and welcome to this site.

Regarding on whether to replace the factory strings. You need to ask yourself why, not us.

Are the strings old?

Are they the standard gauge you use?

Are they the same as the make you use?

When I get a new guitar, I ask the first two questions and if the answers are No and Yes, I leave them alone. I normally only change strings, on new stuff, if they sound a bit dead or pitted. BTW I have a Gibson 339 and left the strings on when I bought it.

Regarding the second question, I have no idea. To me, the sound you get comes mainly from you and there are no 'magic' settings to achieve what you want. Just experiment with the sound that comes from you and the equipment you have.

My "new guitar" routine is similar to Joe-Bob's. Yes, I change strings immediately. The factory strings may be just fine (but probably not), but most guitars come shipped with 9's, which I don't care for. I use either 10's or 11's, depending on the scale length of the guitar. 10's on 25 1/2" scale (Fender), and 11's on 24 3/4' scale guitars (Gibson).

I will also adjust the truss rod, because I like my necks ruler flat. Most some from the factory with a bit of relief. I also like polished frets, so I'll do that before I install the new strings.

That having been said, if you like the factory strings, leave them on. But, strings are cheap, and new strings are one of the easiest ways to make sure your new guitar sounds its best.